Anthropomorphic mask "mbuya"
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93rd Tribal Art AuctionAnthropomorphic mask "mbuya"
D. R. Congo, Pende
Provenance | Size | Starting price / estimated price |
---|---|---|
Jean Zimmermann, New York, USA |
H: 11 inch; T: 14.6 inch |
This object is not available anymore. |
wood, pigments, plant fibre, raffia bast, base
The identification of a specific mask character depends largeley on aspects of the costume, including the headdress and acessories, and the choreography of the dance.
Althought the present mask's exact name cannot be determined outside of the performance context, its facial features, along with its raffia coiffure, may identify it as representing a mask genre called "pota" or "ginjinga", both known for their acrobatic and extravagant dances.
Fagaly, William, Ancestors of Congo Square, New Orleans 2011, p. 329